Boeing Helicopters May Be Built in Saratov

Today, Kurt Weldon, a representative in the US Congress, has arrived in the Russian city of Saratov to negotiate the creation of a joint venture on the basis of the Saratov Aviation Plant to make Boeing helicopters.

Mr. Weldon, presiding in the Military Supplies Congressional subcommittee, said that the initial stages of the project would be discussed. He also said that the helicopters in questions would be civil machines. However, he did not rule out the possibility that military helicopters, including those to be used by NATO, might also be made at a later time. Mr. Weldon disclosed no further information. The congressman's daughter Karen who is an advisor employed by Boeing will also attend the talks.

Alexander Yermishin, General Director of the Saratov plant said his company had previous experience building such helicopters as MI-4 and MI-24. At this time the plant makes Yak-40, Yak-42, and Yak-54 aeroplanes.